This past offseason, the Memphis Grizzlies decided to let sharpshooter Luke Kennard walk away in free agency. Kennard signed a one-year, $11 million contract with the Atlanta Hawks on July 8th. Six days later, on July 14th, Memphis announced its long-term commitment to Cam Spencer. Spencer signed a 4-year, $10.5 million contract, which includes three fully guaranteed seasons. This was a restructuring of a prior two-year deal the Grizzlies had signed with Spencer after he completed his rookie season on a two-way contract.
Memphis’ front office and fans alike grew frustrated with Kennard’s lack of defensive ability, inconsistent play, and most importantly, his unwillingness to shoot more threes.